Ireland seeks return of rare cannons from Tower of London over smuggling claims

Ireland has requested the return of two rare bronze cannons from the Tower of London, claiming they were illegally smuggled from a shipwreck off the coast of Waterford in the 1970s. The cannons, made for King Henry VIII, are among only ten surviving examples. Irish officials have documented their efforts to reclaim the cannons, which were sold to the Tower without proper reporting to authorities. Concerns about potential targeting by the Provisional IRA have also influenced the discussions surrounding their return. The Royal Armouries expressed a desire to resolve the controversy, citing negative publicity and safety concerns. Despite some British officials being sympathetic, the Royal Armouries stated they needed assurance of a valid claim from Ireland before proceeding.